In less than three years, 13-year-old Quin Etnyre learned to program electronics, created his own company, and began teaching MIT graduates in his spare time. (Photo: YouTube/BBC)

Most 13-year-olds spend their free time Facebooking friends or figuring out how to microwave a Hot Pocket just right, so it’s neither awkwardly cold (but not cold enough to stop eating it) nor molten lava (but not hot enough to stop eating it) in the center. Meanwhile, Quin Etnyre is teaching MIT grad students all about technology.

Quin is a self-taught whiz-kid who discovered his passion for tech, launched a company that makes starter kits for young people interested in electronic programming, and began teaching people more than twice his age all in the span of just three years. It’s his goal to change the US educational system, integrating more complex concepts into everyday classes.

Prepare to feel very lazy and stupid:

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RYOT NOTE from Lola

Quin’s early passion for science and technology doesn’t have to be such a rarity. The Planetary Society aims to ignite a similar fire in other young people, and to unlock the genius in all young minds. Click on the Action Box atop this story to learn more, donate and Become the News!